The Moonlit Guitar: Historical Guitar Performance within 'Bel Canto' Arrangements
Author Identifier (ORCID)
Research Statement
Research Background
This solo concert explored mid nineteenth-century guitar performance practices on a period instrument within the hitherto neglected context of historical arrangements. Alterations were of special interest, precipitating questions regarding meaning, expressivity, and execution. Building on research by Walter, Glise, et.al, as well as historical methods and scores, this project investigated historical guitar performance within an atypical context. The period guitar (the same as used by Shand) becomes a vehicle for embodied experimentation.
Research Contribution
The program curation highlighted the breadth of period guitar arrangement practice, restoring the art (described by Busoni as re-composition) to an appropriate place of recognition. Within the array of ‘bel canto’ works, the guitar’s potential for imitating vocal qualities became a key focus. Historical methods (Shand, Foden, et.al) and editions (Mertz, Tárrega, Shand) shed light on how portamento and timbral variety can be meaningful applied beyond notation. Likewise, early editions provided exemplars of vocally inspired cadenzas and rubato practice for experimental improvisatory application. The results argue persuasively that historical style can elevate the sentimentality of this repertoire beyond kitsch. Shand’s significance was further amplified by findings of the political subtexts underlying his1893 Australian tour, particularly “The Forgotten Strain.”
Research Significance
This concert was presented by invitation (a form of peer review) from Oliver Fair-Tach Naini (renowned German-born guitarist and head of guitar at Elder Conservatorium), who curates an annual guitar concert by a visiting Australian expert as part of the established Wayville Concerts series, a series of longstanding local significance. As guest artist for the weekend, Paget was also appointed as adjudicator for the guitar section of the Adelaide Eisteddfod.
Non-Traditional Research Output
Live Performance
Document Type
Non-Traditional Research Output
Date of Publication
2024
Location of the Work
Adelaide
Publication Title
The Moonlit Guitar
Publisher
Wayville Concerts
School
Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts
RAS ID
83761
Event Dates
June 07, 2024
Event Venue
Wayville Concert Series, Adelaide
Duration
65 minutes
Comments
Paget, J. (2024). The Moonlit Guitar: Historical Guitar Performance within 'Bel Canto' Arrangements. [audio files]. Wayville Concert Series, Adelaide.